Lillie Mae Richardson

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we honor the life and legacy of Lillie Mae Richardson, a devoted mother, cherished sister, faithful servant, and beloved member of her community. Born on January 10, 1946, in Selma, North Carolina, Lillie Mae was the eldest child of Lola Richardson and Lannie Broadie. She was raised with her siblings: Paul Broadie Jr. of Gainesville FL, Arthur Broadie of Bronx, N.Y., Mary Christine Dunston of Harrisburg, Marie James of Smithfield, NC, Janie Broadie of Bronx, N.Y. and Josephine Pettiway of Smithfield, N.C. Lillie Mae attended Richard B. Harrison School in Selma NC where she lived until the age of 19. She then moved to the Bronx, New York where she met and married James Elwood Richardson. Together they built a loving home and raised six children: Antonio S. Broadie, Andre D. Broadie, Melvin Miller(stepson), Shnice Broadie, Martha A. Richardson, Ethel C. Alton, and Darlene M. Harmon.

A woman of quiet strength and deep compassion, Lillie Mae dedicated her life to caring for others. She worked as a Certified Nurse's Assistant, a home health aide, and held various roles in the food industry. Her work was a reflection of her heart; always giving, always serving.

In 1978, Lillie Mae became a devoted member of Faith Refuge Church, where she was baptized and filled with the gift of the Holy Ghost. She served faithfully for over 46 years. Her ministry included roles as a Chaplain, Sergeant at Arms for the Armour Bearer Young People's Union (ABYPU), Missionary, Choir Member, and leader of the Snack/Food Bank Ministry. She was honored as the Mother of the Church, a title that reflected her wisdom, grace, and nurturing spirit. Her dedication earned her numerous awards and the admiration of all who knew her.

Her favorite color was green, symbolizing life, growth, and renewal all qualities that she embodied everyday. She loved roses, and her favorite gospel songs, included", I Don't Feel Noways Tired", "Because He Lives", and "Goodness of God". These songs were a testament to her enduring faith. She also found joy and inspiration in the voices of James Cleveland, Mahalia Jackson, and The Anointed Pace Sisters.

Lillie Mae was known for her words of wisdom, kindness, and generosity. Her legacy lives on in the lives that she touched, the family she nurtured, and the community she uplifted. She passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where she continued to be a beacon of light and love. She was preceded in death by her mother Lannie Broadie, her husband James E. Richardson, her sisters Josephine Pettiway and Janie Comery, her nephews Stanley and Malcolm Broadie, and her great granddaughter Sha’kiia Broadie. Her memory will forever be cherished by her children, siblings, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great grandchildren, church family, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and service that will continue to inspire generations to come.